Jonathan Dayton

Jonathan Dayton was a significant figure in the early United States politics, known for being the youngest person to sign the Constitution of the United States at the age of 26. Born on October 16, 1760, in Elizabethtown, New Jersey, Dayton was involved in politics from an early age. His career began when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1791 and then served as its third Speaker from 1795 to 1799. However, his political career faced a setback in 1807 when he was arrested for alleged treason connected with Aaron Burr's conspiracy. Although he was exonerated by a grand jury, his national political career never fully recovered. Dayton's life was also marked by his military service. He was 15 when the Revolutionary War broke out, under his father in the 3rd New Jersey Regiment. He served under General George Washington and was involved in the Battles of Brandywine Creek and Germantown. After the war, Dayton pursued law and became a prominent Federalist legislator. He remained active in politics, serving in the New Jersey General Assembly. His late-life was marked by his marriage to Susan Williamson in 1779 and his two daughters. Dayton passed away in his hometown on October 9, 1824 and was interred in an unmarked grave. Despite his controversial career, his legacy still resonates today, with various locations being named in his honor, such as the city of Dayton, Ohio.